In 2010, when the world was recovering from the downturn that plagued the world in 2009, the utility industry was closely tracking the overall economic health of the respective regions. IDC Energy Insights predicts that 2011 will be the year of cautious optimism, with strong demand and positive business sentiments returning, and the utility industry will start investing in forward-looking initiatives, including increased customer focus as well as business and IT alignment.

The utility industry in Asia/Pacific is poised to enter into the next cycle of business transformation, driven by strong focus on quality, security and reliability of services, customer-centric business models, intelligent grid technologies, energy efficiency, as well as increased attention to environment and sustainability.

Smart grid has therefore become a key initiative that is set to grow significantly in the coming years due to market forces and regulatory requirements that target cost reduction, increased efficiency and service levels, as well as proactive response to demand signals.

China, as the fastest growing economy in Asia/Pacific, the Chinese government has been increasing investment into smart grid technology to prepare for national energy needs that are expected to double in ten years. It also ranks the top by smart grid stimulus investment for 2010 in global scale. The government's investment into grid intelligence is expected to continue and increase in the next 10 years, which translate to enormous opportunities for the industry participants and investors.

In this briefing, IDC Energy Insights analysts would walk you through how utilities, government agencies and key participants in the smart grid ecosystem can leverage smart grid initiatives to improve operational efficiency, security, and support new programs such as demand response.

In 2011, smart grid initiatives will be more than just technology test-beds; scalability and commercial viability will be key to its success. Come join us at the briefing today!